Voters in federal elections would need to show a valid photo ID — like a driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID — before casting a ballot, under this bill. Voters who show up without ID could still cast a provisional ballot, then have three days to provide identification or sign an affidavit citing a religious objection to being photographed. Mail voters would need to submit a copy of a photo ID, the last four digits of their Social Security number with an affidavit explaining they couldn't get an ID, or a notarized ballot. States would have to post notices about the new ID rules and provide free access to copiers and scanners at government buildings so voters can copy their identification. A new federal grant program would also help states and tribal governments cover the cost of issuing free photo IDs to voters who say they can't afford the fee.
Civil Liberties
- In-person voter ID — Photo ID required to cast a federal ballot, with provisional-ballot cure period
- Mail ballot ID — Requires a photo ID copy, partial Social Security number affidavit, or notarization
- Free ID access — Federal grants cover fee-free state and tribal photo IDs for voters who can't afford them
Congressional Summary
Voter ID ActThis bill establishes certain photo identification requirements for voting in federal elections.Specifically, the bill prohibits a state or local election official from providing a ballot for a federal election to an individual who does not present valid physical photo identification.Next, the bill outlines the availability of provisional ballots and the requirements for counting those ballots. An individual who does not present a valid photo identification must be permitted to cast a provisional ballot. However, an election official may not determine that the individual is eligible under state law to vote in the election unless, not later than three days after casting the provisional ballot, the individual presents (1) the identification required, or (2) an affidavit attesting that the individual does not possess the identification because of a religious objection to being photographed.An election official may not allow for voting methods other than in-person voting unless the individual (1) submits the ballot with a copy of their photo identification or the last four digits of their Social Security number with an affidavit attesting that the individual is unable to obtain a copy of a valid photo identification after making reasonable efforts to obtain a copy, or (2) includes a notarization attesting that the individual has personally marked the ballot. This prohibition shall not apply to overseas military voters and certain disabled or elderly voters.The Election Assistance Commission must make grants to states and tribal governments that provide eligible individuals with free valid photo identification.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- House
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Reported to House
- Action Date
- 2026-07-15
- Date Added
- 2026-07-18
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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